The former dairy site, which comprises three locally listed buildings, will undergo sensitive restoration to preserve its heritage while bringing it back into public use
In a step towards urban regeneration and economic revitalisation, Croydon Council’s planning department has granted approval for the transformation of the former Milk & More dairy site on Brighton Road, Purley. The site, which has been vacant for some time, is set to be revitalised into a retail unit and a creative hub featuring 20 studio spaces for local artists and entrepreneurs.
The proposed development has garnered substantial support from the Purley community, with 96% of respondents in a consultation exercise expressing their approval. The project aligns with Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s vision for regenerating the borough, attracting inward investment, and creating employment opportunities for local residents.
The former dairy site, which comprises three locally listed buildings, will undergo sensitive restoration to preserve its heritage while bringing it back into public use. The new retail unit is expected to be occupied by Marks & Spencer, which plans to open a new Foodhall as part of the development. This addition will be situated within the Purley Business Improvement District and is anticipated to create approximately 120 new jobs, including 55 positions at the supermarket.
In addition to the retail component, the site will feature a creative hub designed to foster innovation and enterprise in Croydon. The hub will include 20 individual studios and two large open-plan studios, all located above a 68-space car park. These spaces are intended to support the flexible working needs of the creative industries and provide opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
The planning application was submitted by Grove Property, which collaborated closely with Marks & Spencer and engaged extensively with local residents and stakeholders. The developer received overwhelming support, with 582 representations favouring the project. This collaborative approach has been praised as a model for future regeneration projects in the borough.
Executive Mayor Jason Perry expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This Brighton Road project is a prime example of investors working hand-in-hand with the Croydon community, Council, and commercial partners to design a regeneration project that benefits everyone. I am delighted that these historic buildings will be restored and brought back into use while retaining their heritage. The decision by Marks & Spencer to open a new Foodhall in Purley is a clear signal that this area is attractive to retailers. I welcome the 120 jobs the development will create locally and the opportunities the creative studios will bring to entrepreneurs and the Croydon economy.”
This Brighton Road project is a great example of investors working closely with the Croydon community, Council and commercial partners, to design a regeneration project that delivers for all. I’m delighted that we will see these historic buildings restored and brought back into use, whilst retaining their heritage.
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
Nick Snashall, representing Grove Property, echoed these sentiments, saying, “Our vision was to breathe new life into this area. Working closely with Croydon Council and M&S has enabled us to move forward with this project, bringing much-needed inward investment and new job opportunities to the region. We are excited to enter the delivery phase and see this vision become a reality.”
William Smith, Property Director at Marks & Spencer, added, “We are reshaping M&S for growth and ensuring we have the right stores in the right places to deliver the best shopping experience for our customers. We are delighted to open a brand-new M&S Foodhall in Purley, creating 55 jobs for the local community. The store will support local suppliers and offer shoppers a fresh market-style food hall filled with fresh produce sourced from our Select Farm Partners.”
The approval of the Brighton Road project marks a significant milestone in Croydon’s ongoing efforts to revitalise its urban landscape and boost its economy. The combination of retail and creative spaces is expected to attract investors and talent, further enhancing the borough’s appeal as a thriving commercial and cultural hub.
